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Michigan is facing a behavioral health workforce shortage while qualified social workers risk being permanently pushed out of the profession due to arbitrary licensure timelines.

HB 4280 would extend Michigan’s Limited License Master Social Worker (LLMSW) renewal cap from 6 renewals (7 years) to 9 renewals (10 years).

Under current law, once an individual reaches the renewal limit, they cannot reapply for a limited license. If they have not yet completed all required supervised hours for full licensure, they lose the ability to continue pursuing licensed social work practice positions altogether.

Many social workers require additional time due to part-time employment, caregiving responsibilities, limited access to qualified supervisors, financial barriers, health concerns, workforce disruptions, or other life circumstances that affect the pace of completing supervised hours.

HB 4280 maintains professional standards and supervision requirements while providing a more realistic timeframe for social workers completing the licensure process.

Michigan communities cannot afford to lose qualified behavioral health professionals over administrative timelines.

Tell your legislators to support HB 4280.